Warriors have an arsenal of weapons for their 2010 campaign

LAKE GEORGE - For decades, the Warriors have been successful with their aggressive smack-down, no-holds-barred brand of football.

Two years ago, they took their game to new heights, clobbering one opponent after another to tally an undefeated season. They shattered school records in the process.

Last year, after a promising 5-1 start, injuries took their toll. Caleb "Monster" Meroski, the record-setting running back, chipped his ankle, and the season ended short of a Sectional title.

In June, a group of talented seniors graduated. Meroski is now running like a locomotive for Alfred University.

But Jack Clark, Kyle and Lee McCabe are back. So is Willy Blunt, who moved into quarterback position last year as a freshman, surprising a lot of people with his prowess.

Coach Jeff Bennett said he expects a solid year from Blunt.

"Willy's comfortable back there this year, and he's excited to play," Bennett said.

That's not all Bennett and his crew have lined up for the 2010 season.

There's Matt McGowan at wide receiver, who not only possesses the 6'6" height to let Blunt throw some lofty shots above the reach of defenders, but he's got good hands - look at his record as a Warrior basketball standout.

"McGowan's a real specimen on the field," Bennett said, predicting more airborne plays this year. "He's definitely a weapon."

And the "Meroski factor" is now likely to be fulfilled by senior Alex Liucci, tailback and linebacker.

Liucci ought to know how to run, dodge and blast through opponents like Meroski did - Liucci blocked for him routinely all last year, mowing down the guys who tried to get close.

Blunt will also likely be handing the ball off to Connell McCabe and Marty Zivica, who play tailback as Meroski did.

The offense may be experienced and athletic, but the 2010 squad's defense may be the dominant element in their success.

"Our defense is pretty much all back this year, and as a unit, they look good," Bennett said. "We've got good meat on the front line."

The beef, he said, is represented by Jack Clark, Lee McCabe and Kyle Bachem.

"They're all very strong," Bennett said, adding that his team looks balanced with the players exhibiting a variety of talents - as well as enthusiasm.

"Our guys work hard, they don't miss practices - they're dedicated," he said. "We've got experienced players in key areas, giving us good leadership, and we're happy with the chemistry."